[A study of genetic patterns of idiopathic epilepsy].
OBJECTIVE
To explore genetic patterns of idiopathic epilepsy (IEP).


METHODS
Using familial analysis, tests for multifactorial inheritance and segregation analysis, we studied 210 pedigrees with IEP found in a population survey in Shangdong province.


RESULTS
The genetic pattern of IEP is not polygenic but is mainly influenced by autosomal recessive disorders. The results of segregation analysis indicate that the genetic pattern of U*U multiplex families and U*A group is autosomal recessive. Only a few cases in U*U group may accept the assumption of autosomal recessive inheritance while the other are sporadic cases. The frequency of sporadic cases is approximately 78.5%. Genetic heterogeneity may influence U*U(f) group and U*U group.


CONCLUSIONS
Further and careful empirical scrutiny of U*U(f) group and the sporadic cases in U*U group offers the best hope for getting a clear understanding of genetic patterns and mechanisms in IEP.
Bai
F
F
Department of Medical Genetics. Weifang Medical College, Weifang, 261042 P. R. China.
Guo
Y
Y
Shan
L
L
Chen
B
B
Dou
X
X
Guo
C
C
Mao
W
W
Zhou
Y
Y
D004827:Epilepsy / Q000235:genetics*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male